1. Get outside! One of the best and easiest ways to build community is to get out and be visible, and that doesn’t have to stop once cold weather sets in. Take the kids out to play in the snow, walk the dog around the block, or string up holiday lights.

2. Gather a group together to carol in your area. (If you live on the Near East Side of Columbus you can join us for caroling on Thursday, December 15th at 4:30 at First English Lutheran Church).

3. Hang wreaths, holiday banners, or bows on lamp posts throughout the neighborhood.

5. Give to someone in need. Adopt a family, deliver a Christmas meal to a home-bound senior, volunteer at a local social service organization, or organize a canned food or winter coat drive.

6. Have a holiday potluck. Ask guests to bring the recipe along with their favorite dish. Afterward, you can use the recipe cards to make a community cookbook!

7. Offer to shovel your neighbor’s driveway. A little kindness goes a long way towards building a better community.

8. Organize a cookie swap with your civic association, block watch, or neighbors across the street. Have everyone write their name and address on a piece of paper and draw it from a hat. Each person then bakes a dozen cookies and delivers it to the person they drew.

9. Shop local businesses for gifts, holiday catering, decorations, and more. Make it a point to say hello to the owner while you’re there!

10. Greet new neighbors. See someone moving in across the street? Take time to introduce yourself, welcome them to the neighborhood, and even bring over some baked goods. A homemade meal and a friendly face can do wonders to ease the stress of moving in.